Gov. Abbott Signed The “Save Chick-fil-A” Bill Into Law In Texas Protecting The Chain From Government Discrimination
In a bewildering cycle of intolerance accusations, the "Save Chick-fil-A Bill," officially titled Senate Bill 1978, was signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott Thursday, July 18. The governor called the bill—which "prevents any government entity from taking 'adverse actions' against an individual or business for their 'membership in, affiliation with, or contribution, donation or other support to a religious organization"—a "victory for religious freedom in Texas."
To break it down, the bill was proposed following a decision to keep Chick-fil-A from opening in the San Antonio airport due to the chain's history of anti-LGBTQ advocacy. In a statement, city councilman Roberto Treviño said this: "San Antonio is a city full of compassion, and we do not have room in our public facilities for a business with a legacy of anti-LGBTQ behavior."
In response, Chick-fil-A issued this statement, per News 4 San Antonio:
We would have liked to have had a dialogue with the city council before this decision was made. We agree with Councilmember Treviño that everyone is and should feel welcome at Chick-fil-A. We plan to reach out to the city council to gain a better understanding of this decision
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton then sent a letter to San Antonio's mayor and councilmen saying he was opening an investigation surrounding the city's choice to exclude the restaurant from its airport, Dallas Fort Worth CBS reported. "The City of San Antonio’s decision to exclude a respected vendor based on the religious beliefs associated with that company and its owners is the opposite of tolerance," Paxton said.
According to the Dallas Morning News, the "Save Chick-fil-A" bill was approved after a 19 to 12 vote; it then went to the house where it was approved in a 79-62 vote. From there, it moved on to the Governor, who signed it while flanked by Chick-fil-A cups and a sandwich box. At this time, it's unclear what the bill will actually mean for Chick-fil-A's potential place in San Antonio International Airport.
Today I signed the @ChickfilA law in Texas.
And, had a great lunch.
No business should be discriminated against simply because its owners donate to a church, the Salvation Army, or other religious organization.
Texas protects religious liberty. pic.twitter.com/1QwSTuoWu0— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 19, 2019
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